Published on Saturday, 22 April 2023 at 8:00:00 AM

The Chidlow War Memorial is set to inherit a piece of Gallipoli at the ANZAC Day service on Tuesday 25 April.

An Aleppo Pine Tree seedling (also known as Gallipoli Pines), will be planted in memory of the Australian and New Zealand soldiers who served in Gallipoli during World War I.

Cultivated from the seed of the Lone Pine Tree at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra, this seedling is now ready to take pride of place amongst the existing pencil pines at the Chidlow War Memorial. The Lone Pine at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra was itself cultivated from the original tree at Gallipoli.

Shire of Mundaring President James Martin said he was pleased to hear the collaboration between the Shire and the Chidlow community would see the tree planted after two years.

 “We were privileged to be entrusted with the care of this seedling,” he said.

 “Team members of the Shire’s Parks and Environment Services have carefully nurtured an Aleppo Pine Tree seedling since August 2021.

 “The team will also install a metal tree guard around the sapling to ensure it has the best chance of growing to maturity”. 

Local publican, Norm Brewer, was instrumental in securing the seedling through the Governor General’s Office. 

He entrusted the care of the seedling to the Shire, knowing it would receive expert care until planting. Mr Brewer’s father, a decorated war hero, spent three and a half years in a Japanese prisoner of war camp. It comes as no surprise to learn that Mr Brewer is committed to preserving ANZAC stories and traditions.

As a long serving member of the Bellevue RSL, and more recently in his role of caretaker of the Chidlow War Memorial, Mr Brewer is helping to keep the memory of the ANZACS alive. His local tavern is also home to an extensive collection of ANZAC history. 

Mr Brewer said if he had to choose one thing to stand as testament to his life in Chidlow and his contribution to his community, it would be the Aleppo tree. 

“Not everyone knows about the strong connection Chidlow has with ANZAC history,” he said. 

“During World War II, the town hosted more than 114 different Australian Army units who camped in the area. 

The tree planting ceremony will take place on Tuesday 25 April as part of the 2023 ANZAC Day commemorative event. 

Event Details

Chidlow District RSL ANZAC Day 2023

Location: Village Green, Thomas Street Chidlow

Gunfire Breakfast: 8am

ANZAC Day March: 9am (from Memorial Avenue to the War Memorial on the Village Green).

ANZAC Day Service: 9.30am at the War Memorial on the Village Green

Followed by fellowship at the Chidlow Tavern.

Back to All News